'Tis the season for mulled wine

Mulled wine -- the vine's version of the hot toddy -- are wines that have been sweetened, spiced and slightly heated.

The process starts with a bottle of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir or Zinfandel. The wine is heated in a large pot, with orange zest or peel and spices, such as cloves, cinnamon and ginger. It is then sweetened to taste with honey or sugar. Some recipes also call for adding brandy.

Mulled wine shouldn't be boiled, but brought to a temperature that it does steam and all ingredients are incorporated.

"There's no sense in going to a really expensive wine for mulled wine," said Phil Behling of Toski Sands Market in Petoskey.

"I'd say you should stick with styles you usually like -- like if you like a Cabernet, go with a Cabernet, or a Pinot Noir if you like that -- but you don't need to spend too much since you're going to be adding a lot of flavors to it."

When it comes to making mulled wine, Behling said all the recipes out there are pretty similar, but it's all about finding individual tastes.

"Add more cinnamon if you like that, and less of other spices. It's all about your tastes."

Basic Mulled WineServes 4-6

One bottle (750 mL) of red wineZest of one orange8-10 cloves1/3 cup honey or sugar, more or less to taste3 cinnamon sticks, plus more for serving, if desired1 teaspoon fresh ginger, or 2 teaspoons ground ginger

Combine all ingredients in a large pot, or slow cooker. Slowly warm the ingredients on low to medium heat, but do not bring to a boil.Stir occasionally to make sure sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are incorporated. To serve, ladle the mulled wine into mugs, and serve with a cinnamon stick, if using.

Witches Brew from Leelanau Cellars is a popular wine this time of year, because of its unique mix of fall flavors.The red wine has a secret blend of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and other natural spices that can be served warm or chilled.Witches Brew is available at many wine shops and grocery stores, and sells for $6 a bottle.